If you’ve been injured at work in New Jersey, you may be eligible for benefits under the state’s workers’ compensation laws. These laws exist to help injured workers recover medical expenses and lost wages while shielding employers from most lawsuits. Whether you were hurt in a construction site accident in Newark or slipped and fell in a Trenton office building, here’s what you need to know.
Who Is Covered?
New Jersey law requires all employers—not just those with multiple employees—to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This includes:
- Full-time, part-time, and seasonal workers
- Immigrant workers, regardless of legal status
- Employees in most private and public sectors
Some exceptions include independent contractors and volunteers, although there are gray areas in classification disputes.
Types of Injuries That Qualify
A workers’ compensation claim can be filed for:
- Traumatic injuries from workplace accidents
- Repetitive stress injuries (e.g., carpal tunnel)
- Occupational illnesses (e.g., exposure to chemicals or asbestos)
- Mental health issues directly tied to a traumatic work incident
You must show that the injury happened during the course of employment to qualify.
Benefits Available
New Jersey’s workers’ compensation system provides the following benefits:
- Medical Treatment: Full coverage for authorized medical treatment (employer selects the provider)
- Temporary Total Disability (TTD): 70% of your average weekly wage after 7 days off work, up to a state maximum
- Permanent Partial Disability (PPD): Weekly benefits for permanent injuries that partially impair your ability to work
- Permanent Total Disability (PTD): If you’re permanently unable to work, you may receive lifetime benefits
- Death Benefits: Surviving dependents may receive 70% of the deceased worker’s weekly wage plus up to $3,500 in funeral costs
These benefits are governed by annual maximums and minimums set by the New Jersey Division of Workers’ Compensation.
Deadlines and Procedures
Timing matters in New Jersey workers’ comp cases:
- Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible—ideally within 14 days
- The employer has 21 days to file the claim with their insurance
- If benefits are denied or disputed, you can file a formal claim petition or request an informal hearing within 2 years of the injury or last compensation payment
Delays may lead to denial of benefits.
Choosing a Doctor
In New Jersey, your employer or their insurance carrier has the right to select the doctor you see. If you choose your own provider without prior approval, you may have to pay out of pocket. You can request a second opinion or a different provider, but the decision is typically in the hands of the employer’s insurance.
Dispute Resolution
If your claim is denied or you’re not receiving the correct benefits, you can:
- File an informal claim with a workers’ compensation judge
- File a formal claim petition and attend a hearing
- Appeal the judge’s decision to the Appellate Division of the Superior Court
Legal support is highly recommended if your claim becomes contested.
Legal Help for Workers in New Jersey
A New Jersey workers’ compensation attorney can guide you through the process, especially if:
- Your employer disputes your injury
- You’re being sent back to work before you’re ready
- You want to negotiate a lump-sum settlement
- Your claim has been denied
Many workers’ comp attorneys offer free consultations and don’t charge unless they win or settle your case.
Final Thoughts
Don’t wait to take action after a workplace injury. New Jersey’s workers’ compensation laws offer real protection—but you must act quickly and follow the right steps. Report your injury, seek medical attention, and talk to a lawyer if you need help getting the benefits you deserve.